Foundation

Raising £40,000 to bring light to our chapel in 2019

Our Chapel is one of Sedbergh’s most historic buildings and has stood on this site for well over 100 years. It is at the heart of our School. The School is committed not only to the preservation of its historic buildings, but ensuring that they remain useful spaces, fit for modern purpose. In an increasingly busy world, the sanctuary of our Chapel is a key part of the wellbeing of our community.

The Chapel is a daily space of reflection for all pupils, as well as a performance space for our Choir and musicians. Recognition of the Chapel’s importance not only to Sedberghians but those in our wider community was affirmed through a donation from the legacy of Reverend Bill Long, former Sedbergh School teacher, and longstanding parish vicar at St Andrew’s, Sedbergh, who died in March 2018 aged 103. Our Chapel brought light, peace and joy to many, and in true community spirit, we are asking you to join Reverend Long in support of our Chapel Appeal.

The fabric of the Chapel has hardly changed in its 100 years and some key areas require attention.We are fundraising to upgrade the 1970s lighting to a modern, safe and efficient system, which neither requires an endless supply of increasingly expensive bulbs, nor jeopardises the safety of our estates team who willingly ascend their ladders to replace them. A new lighting system in our chancel, altar and transepts will enable our congregation to see the spectacular performances, services and surroundings, and bring joy to those outside our walls, for whom the brightly lit stained-glass will become visible for our evening services. Our brilliant Choir will benefit from much better light with which to follow their music and work together to enhance our worship. We anticipate that this will cost £50,000, an important investment which will bring great benefit to all. Reverend Long has given us a head start towards our target – we are asking our community for £40,000 to improve the Chapel lighting by making a one-off donation or spreading your gift over a number of months. All donations received will really make a difference and help us put Reverend Long’s legacy to good use.

A full copy of the Chapel Appeal brochure can be seen HERE with details on how to make a donation.